Type of publication:
Conference abstract
Author(s):
*Deane L.; *Williams S.; *Cielecki L.; *Burley S.
Citation:
Breast Cancer Research 2021, 23(Suppl 1):P57
Abstract:
Background: Due to the immense pressure to provide capacity for women with breast symptoms, to be seen within two weeks, a new innovative role has been created to provide increased capacity. Introduction: The breast services see many women with conditions that are benign and easily identified upon ultrasound. The majority of these conditions occur in women under the age of 40years. The role of an advanced clinical practitioner was created to answer a service need. This role requires a highly specialised cohort of skills combining breast image interpretation, breast ultrasound and breast biopsying alongside a range of clinical competences enabling autonomous practice within clear governance.
Method(s): A new clinic was created for under 40 aged women only requiring only a breast clinical specialist and an advanced clinical practitioner, using ultrasound for assessment. Unexpected findings suspicious upon ultrasound-would be redirected to the next consultant led clinic for full imaging assessment and biopsy.
Result(s): Increased capacity was achieved, without increased costs. Anxiety levels were reduced due to these patients seen within these clinics and more specialist skills could be directed to more complex cases in the traditional cancer clinics.
Conclusion(s): The use of this specialist role has proven to be innovative and specialised in answering capacity issues within the workforce. The ACP role is utilised as a support to all clinics working alongside consultant radiographers as well as in an autonomous role, thereby freeing up the consultants for cases requiring specialist skills. The stability of the breast service has been ensured
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